Motorcycle clothing rated for a safe ride

The world’s first safety ratings system for motorcycle clothing provides scientifically-based information on comfort and protection.

The Motorcycle Clothing Assessment Program (MotoCAP) gives clothing separate star ratings for protection and comfort. The protection rating considers performance in abrasion resistance, seam strength and impact protection. The comfort rating is based on how comfortable the clothing is when worn in the Australian climate.

The right motorcycle equipment can reduce the likelihood of permanent injuries from a crash and shorten hospital recovery times. It can also allow motorcyclists to enjoy a more comfortable ride, with less distraction, fatigue and dehydration.

Ten leather jackets and ten pairs of denim pants have been tested. The Calibre jacket by Rjays scored highest with five stars; the Triumph Hero Riding pants scored four stars. Denim pants by Neojeans, Harley Davidson, Rjays and Rev’It were given four stars for comfort.

Minister for Roads, Maritime and Freight Melinda Pavey said the MotoCAP is the first of its kind, and aims to give the motorcycle community more information when making choices about the clothing they wear while riding.

“This is why Transport for NSW’s Centre for Road Safety collaborated with State Insurance Regulatory Authority, Insurance Australia Group and the Australian Motorcycle Council as well as other agencies and motoring organisations around Australia and New Zealand, to develop the system and test the gear,” Mrs Pavey said.